Hi Dane, maybe you can give me some advise on a proper ice axe length for general mountaineering in the eastern alps. I don't want to use it as a walking stick. I'm 5.10 (178cm) and just bought a grivel air tech 58cm. Thus I have about 27 cm (11in) between the bottom of my ice axe and the ground when holding it in my hand. Do you think its too short? Greets from Austria
Hi Andreas, I am 6'1" and use a 50cm axe generally. Little harder to self arrest with and only good for cutting steps on really steep ground. 58/60 would be better in most places and way easier to self arrest and cut steps as needed. I have 70 and 80cm axes as well and have used them to demo techniques. But generally I like the smallest axe I can get by with. These days I might carry a pair of lwt trekking poles to go with my short axe as well for when I'd really like a walking stick or two.
You were right, no longer ice axe will be needed. Length seems to be really nice and perfect on slopes around 40 degrees. Tried it on the Similaun (Italy/Austria) this WE. thanks
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Hi Dane, maybe you can give me some advise on a proper ice axe length for general mountaineering in the eastern alps. I don't want to use it as a walking stick. I'm 5.10 (178cm) and just bought a grivel air tech 58cm. Thus I have about 27 cm (11in) between the bottom of my ice axe and the ground when holding it in my hand. Do you think its too short?
Greets from Austria
Hi Andreas, I am 6'1" and use a 50cm axe generally. Little harder to self arrest with and only good for cutting steps on really steep ground. 58/60 would be better in most places and way easier to self arrest and cut steps as needed. I have 70 and 80cm axes as well and have used them to demo techniques. But generally I like the smallest axe I can get by with. These days I might carry a pair of lwt trekking poles to go with my short axe as well for when I'd really like a walking stick or two.
You were right, no longer ice axe will be needed. Length seems to be really nice and perfect on slopes around 40 degrees. Tried it on the Similaun (Italy/Austria) this WE. thanks
Hey Bob, doing fine, thanks. Just busy with other things right now. Cheers!
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